Mazda unveils its MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition

In February 1989, Mazda introduced what would become the best-selling two-seater sports car of all time – the MX-5 Miata. Twenty-five years and over 940,000 sales later, Mazda has now unveiled a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the car, which we spied at this year's New York International Auto Show.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition is based on the existing Roadster Coupe model, and features a power retractable hard top and the buyer's choice of either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. To paraphrase Henry Ford, it's available in any color you want, as long as that color is Soul Red Metallic.

Its MZR 2.0L 4-cylinder 16-valve aluminum alloy engine was designed with particular attention to the weight and balance of its moving parts, such as the pistons, connecting rods and flywheel. The result is a power plant that reportedly "revs even more freely, delivering extraordinary response and acceleration as well as a deeply satisfying engine note."

The 6-speed version delivers 167 hp at 7,000 rpm, while the automatic puts out 158 hp at 6,700 rpm. Both versions manage 140 lb ft (190 Nm) of torque at 5,000 rpm. The 6-speed tips the scales at 2,593 lb (1,176 kg), while the automatic weighs in at 2,619 lb (1,188 kg).

Just 100 of the 25th Anniversary Edition Miatas are being manufactured, and they should be available for pre-order later this spring (Northern Hemisphere). Pricing has yet to be announced.

Mazda revealed the car yesterday, at which time it also provided a look at the new Skyactiv-Chassis that will be implemented in the next generation of the MX-5. Its front-midship-engine layout places the engine closer to the center of the vehicle than ever before, resulting in what is planned to be the most compact Miata so far. It will also have a lower center of gravity than any previous version, plus it'll be over 100 kg (220 lb) lighter.

Our new premium service is backed by 15 years of experience covering science, technology and innovation. New Atlas Plus delivers a visual experience that is cleaner, faster loading and ad free. Join the growing list of Plus subscribers for just US$19 a year.